SUN PRAIRIE - Harold E. Bergeman Sr., age 86, of Sun Prairie, passed away on Monday, August 11, 2025, at St. Mary's Hospital. He was born on September 24, 1938, in Madison, Wis., the son of Harold and Iva (Coleman) Bergeman.

Harold attended both Madison East and Monona Grove High Schools. On May 17, 1980, he married the love of his life, Judy, in Madison. He started his career as a painter working with his dad and his brother, Jim, and completed his journeyman apprenticeship in 1961. He later became a painting contractor for Schmelzer Paint Company, where he worked for over 35 years, until his retirement. He was a member of the Madison Painters Union Local 802, for over 50 years. In 2003, he was awarded the distinction of life membership by the International Union of Painters and Allied Trades.

Beyond his professional life, Harold was a member of Immanuel Lutheran Church, the Madison Moose Lodge, and the Air National Guard. Harold was a devoted fan of the Brewers. Win or lose, that was still his favorite team. He enjoyed listening to music, dancing, watching TV, hunting, camping, and spending time with his family, especially going to family reunions. Harold believed in the Lord and called on him often. His journey on earth was one marked by love, compassion, and unwavering faith in God.

Harold is survived by his wife, Judy; children, Robert (John Sacia) Bergeman, Nanci (Michael) Neubauer, Diana Fischer, Angela Hauda, Linda Rhinehart, Lori Olson, John (Tracey) Olson and Becky (Jay) Schowalter; sister Marian Stoflet; many grandchildren and great-grandchildren; many nieces and nephews; and his canine companion, Maggie. He was preceded in death by his parents; brother, James (Mary Lou) Bergeman; brother in-law, Merlin Stoflet; sisters, Deloris Bergeman, Janet Reinke; former wife, Phyllis Bergeman; and son, Harold E. Bergeman Jr.

The family would like to express their gratitude to Dr. Cooper and the palliative care team at SMM Health for their outstanding care and supportive approach, along with the Sun Prairie Fire and EMS first responders and St. Mary’s Hospital ER team for their exceptional care and compassion. The family also wishes to extend their heartfelt appreciation to family and friends for the outpouring of love, support, and kindness during this difficult time. A special thanks to Harold’s niece, Peggy Hariu, for her selfless dedication and invaluable support prior to and during his illness.

A funeral service will be held at GUNDERSON EAST FUNERAL AND CREMATION CARE, 5203 Monona Drive, Madison, at 1 p.m. on Friday, August 22, 2025, with the Rev. Rebecca Ninke presiding. Entombment will be held at Highland Memory Gardens. Visitation will be held at the funeral home from 11 a.m. until the time of the service on Friday.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Wounded Warrior Project or to St. Jude's Children's Research Hospital. Online condolences may be made at www.gundersonfh.com.

Gunderson East
Funeral & Cremation Care
5203 Monona Drive
(608) 221-5420

Harold E. Bergeman Sr.

September 24, 1938 - August 11, 2025

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